Mission Spotlight: Presbyterian Disaster Assistance

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance enables congregations and mission partners of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to witness to the healing love of Christ through caring for communities adversely affected by crises and catastrophic events.

For over 70 years, the One Great Hour of Sharing special offering of PCUSA, normally collected in March and April, has provided Presbyterians a way to share God’s love with our neighbors in need around the world.

However, in the early hours of December 11th, several tornadoes ripped through multiple U.S. states, resulting in extensive damage and significant loss of life.

Several FPC church members have reached out to ascertain how we as a church can assist victims of this devastation.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is not considered a “First Responder.” PDA focuses more on the Long Term Recovery.

That being said, PDA does immediately reach out to the effected presbyteries with an initial grant. This is ready monies that Presbytery can delegate as it sees the needs. Also, any PCUSA churches that have been damaged will be eligible for an immediate grant as well.

PDA also has a new Response Hosting program. It will likely be called into action with this disaster. Response Hosting is a rapid set up of a Volunteer Hosting Site. These sites would have the bare minimum of amenities.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is in touch with affected Presbyteries to coordinate resources and assistance. To register interest in volunteering for rebuilding efforts when they are ready, email PDA.CallCenter@pcusa.org

If you would like to contribute financially to the PDA relief efforts for this particular disaster, you can mail and check to

Presbyterian Church (USA)
P.O. Box 643700
Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700

In the memo line designate gifts to DR000015 for the December Tornados.

Please continue to pray for our friends in Kentucky and across Appalachia as they grieve lost loved ones and work to rebuild communities.

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